Riding a motorcycle is one of my greatest joys, but it presented a unique challenge when I started needing prescription glasses. Figuring out how to comfortably and safely wear glasses under a helmet was a learning process. I'm sharing my experiences and some helpful tips that I've picked up along the way, especially for those who need prescription glasses while riding.
When I first started riding with glasses, I was a bit worried. Would they fit? Would they be comfortable? Would they fog up constantly? My initial helmet, while a decent fit overall, felt a little tight around my temples when I tried to squeeze my glasses in. I quickly realized that not all helmets are created equal when it comes to accommodating eyewear.
I quickly learned the importance of putting my helmet on first and then carefully sliding my glasses into place. Taking the helmet off required the reverse order: glasses off first, then the helmet. A few times, I forgot, and it wasn't pretty! It's a simple thing, but remembering this order makes a huge difference.
The first thing I learned was that most decent helmets should have enough room for glasses. My current helmet fits snugly on my head, but it still provides enough space for my glasses to sit comfortably. I know someone who rides with thick-framed glasses and a full-face helmet. He puts the helmet on first and then carefully slides his glasses in. He says it's never been uncomfortable, which is encouraging.
I also considered a modular helmet. The main advantage is being able to flip up the front to talk, eat, or drink without having to remove my glasses and helmet completely. This is especially handy on longer rides when you need to stop for a quick break. The downside is they can be a bit heavier and sometimes noisier than full-face helmets.
I've heard some riders suggest using contacts instead of glasses. For some, this is the ideal solution. I personally don't love wearing contacts all the time, so I prefer to stick with glasses for riding. But it’s definitely a viable option, especially if you only need vision correction for riding.
One of the biggest challenges I faced was fogging. Even with a helmet that fits well and accommodates my glasses, fogging can still be a major issue, especially in colder weather or during rain. I tried a few different anti-fog sprays, and some worked better than others. Finding the right one for your specific helmet and riding conditions is key.
I also found that adjusting the vents on my helmet helped a lot. Opening the vents allowed for better airflow, which reduced the amount of fogging. It's a simple adjustment, but it can make a big difference in visibility. Another tip I learned was to avoid breathing directly onto my glasses. Easier said than done, but consciously trying to direct my breath downwards helped minimize fogging.
I experimented with different types of glasses frames to find the best fit under my helmet. I discovered that frames with thinner temples were generally more comfortable and easier to slide into the helmet. Thicker frames, while stylish, often caused pressure points and discomfort.
I even considered getting a separate pair of glasses specifically for riding. I was drawn to the R55584 Retro Female Optical Anti Blue Ray Presbyopia Glasses from Cinily Net. The anti-blue light feature seemed like a great addition for daytime riding, especially on bright, sunny days. I also liked the retro design. While I didn't end up purchasing these specific glasses, I did learn that having a dedicated pair for riding can be a worthwhile investment. Some glasses are specifically designed to fit comfortably under helmets and provide optimal vision while riding your motorcycle.
Here are some practical tips I've learned from my experience riding with glasses: